Essay #1 Prompt

Here's a copy of the ESSAY #1 Prompt that I presented in class today:

Persuasive Essay / Expository Essay – Essay #1 – Prompt          DUE DATE: 09/28

“An persuasive/expository essay is a formal piece of writing. It requires your opinion on a topic, which must be stated clearly, giving various viewpoints on the topic supported by reasons and/or examples. You should also include the opposing viewpoint in another paragraph.”

            

Over the past two classes we have read or discussed a few very important social themes: The causes and effects of Media saturation, and its influence on today’s citizens; the construct of social class and the role it plays in our lives as Los Angelenos (Renovation of LA); the state of civil rights and individual expression in our country (Colin Kaepernick articles).

            Since we've been reading articles that deal with the clashing of two sides, I want you to pick one and convince me that it is the better side. For this essay, pick one of the three themes that we’ve been discussing, (and if one topic involves the other, that’s ok also) and write a persuasive essay that explains what the subject is, supports your position on the subject with specific examples, and keeps a close eye on what other parties are saying about that subject.                        

            NOTE: If you want to write about a related subject that’s ok too, just run it by me first so I can verify that it’s on track

Ask yourself these questions as you pre-write, and build your paper:

-          What is the focus of your Subject? What is your stance on the subject? (Which side are you on, or do you feel impartial? Are you conflicted, or caught in the middle?)

                          Note: This First part should finish your Intro pargraph in the form of a thesis statement

-          What are some examples you can use and discuss that help support your opinion?

-          What is the opposing viewpoint of your position, and how is yours better?

Specific Requirements

-          MLA Format (12pt/Times New Roman/Double Spaced/Header)

-          At least one quote or example from an outside source, in each body paragraph
       
       NOTE: Use the Articles that were referenced in class, 
       but also (it's highly encouraged) try to find another article 
       to support/refute your argument.

-          2 .5 – 3 pages (No maximum, just no less than 2.5)

-           All Previous pre-writing and drafts turned in on due date.


***** as you begin to pre-write, try and find your own newspaper articles, or op-ed pieces that have to do with your subject (in support and opposition). This will help you develop a more well rounded paper, and get a handle on your argument earlier. ******